Canada’s Approach to International Student Visas: Balancing Growth and Support
In a recent move by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), a temporary cap has been placed on the number of study visas issued to international students. For the year 2024, the cap is set at approximately 360,000 approved study permits, marking a 35% decrease from the previous year. This decision aims to balance the influx of international students with the capacity of educational institutions to provide adequate support.
Provincial Caps and Attestation Letters
The IRCC has also introduced caps for each province and territory, weighted by population. This measure is expected to significantly reduce the number of international students in regions where growth has been deemed unsustainable. However, these caps will not affect current study permit holders or those seeking renewals, and they exclude master’s and doctoral degree students. Starting January 22, 2024, all new study permit applications must include an attestation letter from the respective province or territory (PT). PTs are tasked with establishing a process for issuing these letters by March 31, 2024. The IRCC plans to reassess the cap in 2025.
Post-Graduation Work Permit Eligibility Changes
Changes have also been announced for the Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. From September 2024, students enrolled in curriculum licensing arrangements will no longer qualify for the PGWP. These arrangements typically involve private colleges licensed to teach the curriculum of associated public colleges, which have attracted international students but offer less oversight. In contrast, international graduates from master’s programs or short graduate-level programs will now be eligible for a 3-year work permit. This adjustment addresses the limitations imposed by the current criteria, which bases the PGWP length on the study program duration, potentially hindering the ability of master’s students to gain Canadian work experience and transition to permanent residency.
Open Work Permits for Spouses
Further details are expected in the coming weeks regarding open work permits for spouses of international students. These permits will be exclusive to spouses of students in master’s and doctoral programs. Spouses of students in other study levels, including undergraduate and college programs, will no longer be eligible.
System Integrity Concerns
The IRCC’s measures were anticipated following public discussions by Immigration Minister Marc Miller in the summer of 2023 and a subsequent December release. Miller emphasized the need for designated learning institutions to provide sufficient student supports as part of the academic experience. The minister has expressed concerns over the system’s integrity, citing the high volume of international students and instances where educational promises were not met. The IRCC’s latest release highlights that some institutions have increased intakes primarily for revenue, leading to students arriving without the necessary supports for success. As Canada navigates the complexities of international education, these measures reflect a commitment to maintaining a robust and supportive environment for international students while ensuring the sustainability of the system.